MC Chells Proprietor Decries Burden Of Multiple Taxations

Mr Ushahemba Peter Sokpo, the proprietor of MC Chells Schools, has raised concerns over the financial challenges posed by multiple taxations on his fledgling educational institution. Sokpo shared his frustrations on Friday during the school’s 2024 end-of-year and Christmas party held at its premises located at Kanshio, along the Makurdi-Aliade road.

“Within this short period, we have received 27 notices of visits,” Sokpo lamented. “Out of the 27, only three are normal visits; the rest are tax-related. I have been contemplating writing an open letter to the governor to address this situation.”

MC Chells Schools, which officially opened on September 9, 2024, includes a nursery and primary section and is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission. Sokpo emphasized that the school has complied with all government educational agency standards, highlighting its commitment to providing quality education guided by a clear vision and mission.

Sharing his motivation for establishing the school, the proprietor said, “We aim to equip children with the tools and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Godly values remain essential in the Nigerian educational sector.”

The inspiration for the school traces back to Sokpo’s experiences and observations in his community. “I once noticed a large number of children traveling to distant areas for education. This moved me to consider creating a local solution,” he said. Initial plans to develop a school in a neighboring area were derailed by security challenges, leading Sokpo to focus on Kanshio, his hometown.

“Where MC Chells is located is my village,” he explained. “The land we’ve built on is inherited from my late grandparents. With the support of friends and well-wishers, we’ve made significant progress. The structures you see today are a testament to that collective effort.”

Despite the challenges, Sokpo has ambitious plans for the future of MC Chells Schools. “We’re working towards a secondary school and eventually expanding into health education,” he revealed. “Our goal is to incorporate vocational skills training at the primary level to prepare pupils for self-reliance in a world with limited white-collar opportunities.”

Sokpo’s vision includes ensuring affordability and maintaining high standards. “We’ve prioritized comfort and convenience in everything, from the classroom environment to our fee structure,” he said.

Several guests at the event lauded Sokpo’s efforts and resilience in building a state-of-the-art institution in Kanshio. Mr. Ortese Theophilus Targema, Hon. Kwaghnzua Barnabas Terseer, Mrs. Onoja Ene, and Hon. Agile Ben Jabez, SSA to the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly on Social Media, all commended the proprietor for his vision and dedication.

“MC Chells Schools can compete favorably with older schools in Makurdi,” remarked Mrs. Onoja Ene, a parent. The goodwill messages resonated with the audience, further inspiring the staff and pupils as they celebrated the Christmas and New Year festivities.

As Sokpo continues to navigate the hurdles of multiple taxations and other challenges, his commitment to education and community development remains steadfast. “This is just the beginning,” he said with hope for the future.